Comparisons between Collingwood and the 2023 reigning premiers Geelong have become stark as pressure mounts on Craig McRae’s side ahead of their clash. Like Geelong last year, the Magpies have started their premiership defense slowly, sitting at 0-3 and holding the oldest list in the competition. Collingwood is currently ninth on the ladder, similar to Geelong’s eighth place at this time last year.
Last year, Chris Scott’s Geelong team finished 12th and missed the finals. Now, Collingwood’s fate remains uncertain amid shaky form and a challenging schedule that includes matches against four of the current top eight sides in their remaining seven games. Following their recent loss to Essendon, Collingwood risks joining Geelong (2023), Richmond (2021), Western Bulldogs (2017), and Hawthorn (2009) as reigning premiers who missed the finals the following season.
Garry Lyon commented on Collingwood’s apparent lethargy, noting the stark comparisons with Geelong’s slow start last year. Jonathan Brown added concerns about the Magpies’ age profile and injuries, particularly in the forward half, which have forced Collingwood to use 40 players this season and debut nine newcomers. These injuries have left the starting 23 unsettled and contributed to their struggles.
Brown pointed out that the injuries are concentrated in one area, similar to Geelong’s issues last year. Key forwards like Brodie Mihocek, Dan McStay, Jamie Elliott, Mason Cox, and Beau McCreery are out, and Jeremy Howe has been shifted to a forward position to compensate.
Collingwood’s run home includes matches against Hawthorn, Richmond, Carlton, Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne, with only one game away from the MCG. Brown highlighted the difficulty of their remaining schedule, which could impact their chances of making the finals.
Comparing the two teams:
– 2024 Magpies started 0-3; 2023 Cats started 0-3.
– 2024 Magpies sit ninth after Round 17; 2023 Cats were eighth after Round 17.
– 2024 Magpies’ final ladder position remains to be seen; 2023 Cats finished 12th.
– 2024 Magpies have the oldest average age; 2023 Cats had the oldest average age.